How StrideUX redefined agency growth with on-demand talent
Overview
StrideUX strategically used Contra to amplify the agency’s capabilities.
StrideUX, under the leadership of founder Cory Shoaf, is a distinctive force in the user experience (UX) design landscape. Since its inception in 2019, StrideUX has adopted a client-first approach, placing greater emphasis on building meaningful relationships and delivering bespoke value rather than maximizing revenue alone.
The agency confronts typical client frustrations, particularly those stemming from bad experiences with previous agencies. This is where Cory’s strategic freelance-first model comes into play. By engaging experts on Contra, StrideUX ensures a genuine commitment to each client, tailoring projects to their unique needs while circumventing the financial burdens often associated with a full-time workforce.
StrideUX's growth trajectory has been marked by an intelligent engagement of independent talent, emphasizing quality and attention to detail in every undertaking. Whether it's crafting compelling marketing websites or intricate product designs, Cory's approach allowed StrideUX to scale efficiently while consistently delivering exceptional user experiences that form the cornerstone of their clients' digital narratives.
The Challenge
As StrideUX began to flourish, Cory faced the quintessential startup dilemma: scaling thoughtfully. While he possessed certain skills, such as writing, there were areas outside his expertise that needed filling. Cory initially turned to personal contacts, but that quickly proved unsustainable due to his limited bandwidth and growing demands of the business.
"The real turning point was recognizing that relying on personal networks wasn't scalable. I needed to find professionals who freelanced for a living, who could bring their expertise right when we needed it," Cory shared. He explored various freelance platforms but found them overwhelming and misaligned with his vision. The experience on these platforms was often noisy and impersonal, lacking the warmth and simplicity he sought in professional relationships.
"I needed a platform that could cut through the noise, a place that felt inviting, simple, and aligned with our ethos of detailed, client-focused work. Contra stood out as that warm, clean, and efficient space where we could connect with the right talent effortlessly."
— Cory Shoaf, Founder at StrideUX
StrideUX, a full-service product and marketing agency
The Solution with Contra
Contra saved StrideUX time, so they could focus on scaling their business.
Cory’s journey to Contra began with a simple search for alternative platforms. As a product designer, he was naturally drawn to Contra’s clean, user-focused design. But what stood out to Cory was the quality of talent and the way they presented themselves. “Portfolios on Contra weren't just a list of skills; they were real-world examples presented in a way that showed the freelancer’s dedication to their craft,” he shared.
One experience that particularly resonated with Cory was a virtual assistant candidate who sent a personalized Loom video. “This small act demonstrated how she could add value to StrideUX, showing initiative and a personal touch that was exactly what I was looking for,” he said. “Contra made it incredibly easy to connect with professionals who not only had the right skills but also shared our commitment to detail and quality.”
Outcomes
StrideUX's alliance with Contra heralded a new era of operational agility and creative excellence. The platform’s role in StrideUX’s evolution extends beyond talent sourcing; it has become a catalyst for innovative project management and enhanced client relations.
Cory highlights the tangible benefits: “Time-saving has been a major advantage. With Contra, I’ve been able to step back from day-to-day tasks and delegate effectively, focusing on high-level strategy, client engagement, and scaling the business.”
He also credits Contra for a significant improvement in the agency’s output quality—a direct contributor to their business growth, which mostly comes from word-of-mouth. “I recently hired an experienced Content Writer from Contra who was able to communicate effectively with clients and ask the right questions. It’s talent like this that we wouldn’t have found elsewhere and that has played a key role in building our reputation,” he added.
Cory’s strategic use of Contra’s talent has not only amplified the agency's capabilities but also infused a new vigor into their client interactions and deliverables. “Our collaboration with Contra has reshaped the way we approach projects. We’re not just completing tasks; we’re crafting unparalleled user experiences, and that’s reflected in the growing trust and satisfaction of our clients,” Cory remarked.
“Bringing in freelancers through Contra has been like having a second brain. They bring fresh perspectives and expertise that elevate our projects, add value to our work, and extend our impact for clients.”
– Cory Shoaf, Founder at StrideUX
